Definition

Noun: A jointer plane is a long, hand-operated woodworking tool used by carpenters and woodworkers. Its primary function is to create perfectly straight and smooth edges on wooden boards. This precise shaping allows two boards to fit together seamlessly, typically for creating strong, invisible joints along their long edges.

Usage

The jointer plane is used specifically for preparing wood for edge-to-edge joining, a fundamental technique in cabinetmaking, furniture building, and other fine woodworking. * The carpenter used a jointer plane to prepare the edges of the tabletop boards before gluing them together. * To ensure a tight, gap-free joint, you must first true the edge with a jointer plane.

Advanced Usage

• As part of a process: The use of a jointer plane is often one step in a sequence of planing operations, following a roughing plane and preceding a smoothing plane.
  • After flattening the board's face, he reached for the jointer plane to straighten the edge for the panel glue-up.

Variants and Related Words

• Jointer (noun): In modern workshops, this more commonly refers to a large, stationary power tool (a power jointer or surface planer) that performs the same function as a hand jointer plane but mechanically.
• Try Plane (noun): An alternative historical name for a jointer plane, emphasizing its use for "trying" or testing for straightness.
• Jointing (verb/gerund): The action of making an edge straight and square using a jointer plane.
  • Jointing the edges is a critical skill for traditional woodworking.

Synonyms

• Long plane: A descriptive synonym highlighting the tool's defining physical characteristic.
• Edge jointing plane: A more descriptive term specifying its primary use.

Related Tools and Concepts

• Hand plane (general category): The jointer plane is a specific type of hand plane.
• Edge joint: The type of seam or connection created between two boards prepared with this tool.
• Shooting board: A jig often used in conjunction with a jointer plane to perfect the squareness of board ends.

Noun

1. a long carpenter's plane used to shape the edges of boards so they will fit together